RECENT NEWS

February 12, 2003

Human uses of water can greatly change the quality and quantity of water available to other organisms. Withdrawal of water from small streams for irrigation, municipal and industrial use can leave important habitats drying up or increase temperatures beyond the tolerance of sensitive species. Discharge of industrial and municipal effluents, agricultural run-off, and mine drainage all contribute chemicals to streams and lakes receiving these effluents. It is estimated that there are over 100,000 chemicals in commercial use worldwide. The effects of chemicals discharged into receiving waters varies from increased nutrients causing nutrient blooms to pharmaceuticals called “gender benders” that have been found to alter reproductive development, hormones and behaviours of aquatic organisms.

The profile of water quality increased in Canada following the tragic deaths in Walkerton, from water borne pathogens. However, Canadians are fortunate in the availability of safe drinking water – in developing countries, 80% of illnesses are water-related and, globally, about 34,000 human deaths occur daily from water, feces and dirt related diseases. Humans have an option to purchase bottled water when our water sources become contaminated or dry up – most aquatic organisms have to disperse, tolerate, or perish in these conditions.

So what can we do? Simple changes can improve water quality or reduce our water consumption, allowing more water to remain in natural habitats. Firstly, dispose of chemicals properly. Most municipalities have hazardous waste disposal facilities and many household chemicals, such as cleaning supplies should be considered hazardous. Many pharmacies will take back unused portions of prescriptions. So don’t use your toilet or neighborhood storm drain to dispose of chemicals. Secondly, we can all make small changes in our behaviours to reduce water use. Simple changes such as:
• Turn off your taps while brushing your teeth;
• Use a plastic bag or bottle filled with water to displace water in your toilet tank, saving litres per flush (Note: don’t use bricks or rocks which can break down and damage the tank);
• Keep a bottle of drinking water in the fridge rather than running the tap to get cold water;
• Water your lawn in the morning to reduce evaporation losses and ensure you aren’t watering the driveway or sidewalk.
Not only does water conservation reduce withdrawals from natural habitats, it reduces costs for homeowners and municipalities in both water provision and treatment.

We are fortunate in the quality and variety of aquatic resources in the Columbia Basin. To become more familiar with those in your area, participate in community events celebrating the natural environment. Every fall communities participate in BC Rivers Days (check http://www.orcbc.ca/ for more information), over the next two years “The Wonder of Water” will be organizing events to celebrate water in several watersheds, including the Columbia Basin (see www.wonderofwater.ca for more information), participate in the Family Fishing day or join local angling or naturalist groups on trips. The lakes and streams of the Kootenays are a valuable asset, ours to protect and enjoy.

Information Sources: Environment Canada’s “A Primer on Fresh Water”, Environment Canada’s Freshwater Website (www.ec.gc.ca/water/en/info/pubs/nttw/e_nttwi1.htm)

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